BSc in Archaeology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Durham University

Program Overview

The BSc Archaeology at Durham combines a global survey of human pasts with strong scientific specialization, meaning you’ll learn not only about ancient societies but how we analyze them using DNA, isotopes, geoarchaeology, archaeobotany, etc. It suits students who are curious about both theory and hands-on work — whether your interests lie in landscapes, climate, humans or animals, or in the cutting-edge lab work used to reconstruct past lives.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
In the first year you’ll build foundations: modules like Scientific Methods in Archaeology 1 (including remote sensing, survey methods, scientific dating, analyses of materials), Introduction to Archaeological Methods (case studies, ethics, lab work) and Historical Archaeology: Methods and Sources give you your core tools. You’ll also study things like Archaeology in Britain and choices such as Ancient Civilisations: Sources, Approaches & Methods or Discovering World Prehistory so you get both local and global perspectives.

Second Year
This stage deepens your technical and analytical skills. You take Advanced Skills in Archaeology (either the 40-credit full module or the 20-credit version) which involves applied methods, materials, lab and field work (e.g. GIS, zooarchaeology, human bioarchaeology, remote sensing). You’ll also take Developing Archaeological Research, which prepares you for your dissertation by strengthening your understanding of research design, theory, and presentation. And there’s Professional Training, where you get practical exposure (fieldwork, exhibitions, museum or lab-based) to bridge theory with real archaeological work.

Third Year
In the final year you’ll choose Specialised Aspects of Archaeology topics, letting you go deep into areas you’re most passionate about: for example Forensic and Archaeological Genetics, The Ancient Near East, Bronze Age Britain, Migration and Movement of People, etc. You’ll also take Scientific Methods in Archaeology 3, which focuses on current debates, critical use of scientific techniques, and workshops/seminars for advanced skills. And your capstone is the Archaeology Dissertation (40 credits), where you conduct independent original research under supervision.

Focus areas

ancient landscapes & environments • human & animal remains (osteology, zooarchaeology) • DNA, isotopic & materials science methods • geoarchaeology & environmental archaeology • GIS, remote sensing & survey • heritage, conservation & public archaeology.

Learning outcomes

You will develop scientific and social-science research skills, becoming fluent in archaeological methods (e.g. lab work, dating, isotopes, ancient DNA), critical thinking, data analysis, oral & written presentation, ethical practice, project design & execution, and transferable skills like teamwork and digital competence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From Day 1, Durham ensures you’re not just listening in lectures — you’ll be doing archaeology: getting out in the field, using labs full of specialist kit, working with collections, using digital tools, and gaining experience that builds your confidence and skills.

Then, with practical opportunities such as fieldwork modules, placement options, group excavation projects, and lab-based artefact analysis, you’ll move steadily from foundational techniques into advanced, specialist work.

Here are specific experiential learning features you’ll benefit from as a BSc Archaeology student at Durham:

Fieldwork and trips: First-year students take a two-week fieldwork placement (e.g. excavations at Auckland Castle) to learn core field techniques. In later years, you’ll have opportunities to join digs in the UK and abroad (France, Spain, Kuwait, Nepal, Egypt) and take modules like Interpreting Heritage that include travel to Rome to study monuments first-hand.
Placement Year with Archaeological Services: There’s a possibility to take a paid 9-12 month professional placement with Durham University Archaeological Services, where you work in commercial archaeology — field, lab, desk-based tasks — so you gain real industry professional experience.
Cutting-edge labs and scientific facilities: You’ll have access to a wide array of laboratories including the Ancient DNA Lab, the Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Lab, Luminescence Dating Laboratory, Environmental Archaeology Lab, Materials Analysis Lab, and the Archaeological Science Lab. These facilities support hands-on analysis of materials, bones, ecofacts, dating samples, etc.
Digital and visual tools: The Digital Visualisation Laboratory is used for teaching and research: 3D scanning / reconstruction of artefacts & landscapes, photogrammetry, RTI imaging etc. Software tools around GIS, remote sensing and spatial analysis are part of this.
Collections, museums, and archival work: You’ll work with actual archaeological and skeletal collections (Fenwick Human Osteology Lab), use the Oriental Museum’s artefact collections, and have access to Durham’s photographic studio and project rooms to support documentation & research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a BSc in Archaeology from Durham University opens doors to a diverse range of career paths. The program equips students with scientific and social science research skills, making them well-prepared for roles in commercial archaeology, heritage science, forensic archaeology, and anthropology.

Career Support and Industry Connections:

Dedicated Career Services: Durham University's Careers & Enterprise Centre offers tailored support for archaeology students, including career counseling, CV workshops, and interview preparation.
Employment Statistics: According to the HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey, 91% of UK/EU BSc Archaeology graduates from the 2022/23 cohort were employed or furthering their studies within 15 months of graduation.
Average Salary: The average salary for these graduates is £25,083, with 91% of those employed in high or medium-skilled positions.
Industry Partnerships: Students have the opportunity to engage with Durham University Archaeological Services, the university's own commercial archaeology unit, providing hands-on experience in fieldwork, lab analysis, and desk-based research.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), enhancing graduates' professional credentials and career prospects in the archaeological field.

Further Academic Progression:

Postgraduate Opportunities: Graduates of the BSc Archaeology program often pursue advanced studies to deepen their expertise. Options include:

Master's Degrees: Specializations in areas such as archaeological science, heritage management, or forensic archaeology.
PhD Programs: Engaging in original research within the field of archaeology, contributing to academic knowledge and potentially leading to careers in academia or research institutions.
Professional Development Courses: Short courses and certifications to gain expertise in specific archaeological techniques or methodologies.